ATI Fundamental Proctored Exam 2024-2025 Online Practice 250 Simulated Exam Questions Related

Review ATI Fundamental Proctored Exam 2024-2025 Online Practice 250 Simulated Exam Questions related questions and content

A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has developed cardiogenic shock. When evaluating circulation to the client's brain, which of the following pulse sites should the nurse use?

  • A. Femoral
  • B. Carotid
  • C. Popliteal
  • D. Radial
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Carotid. The carotid pulse site should be used when assessing circulation to the brain in a client with cardiogenic shock because it is the closest pulse site to the brain. The carotid artery supplies blood directly to the brain, making it the most accurate site to assess perfusion to this vital organ.

A: Femoral, C: Popliteal, and D: Radial are not ideal pulse sites for assessing circulation to the brain in a client with cardiogenic shock because they are further away from the brain compared to the carotid artery. Using these sites may not provide an accurate representation of cerebral perfusion in this critical situation.